Five Happy Roths

God Knew All Along

2012-02-03T11:51:00.000-08:00

2 gymnasts getting married...young and in love. We would joke..."How cool would it be to have our own gym! Me and you! We get to work together in the sport that was our life for so many years!"
God heard...and I think He chuckled a little. He knew we would get saved in a little church in Brookhaven. Find a home nearby. Start a new job with the Philadelphia 76ers and start a family. All the while 4 miles away, a gym school named Delco would be a place where little ones played & learned the sport so familiar to us.
Fast forward to 2009. Bill says he thinks it is a good idea to try to put more money into our savings account. No reason besides...it's good to save money.
Fast forward again to the summer of 2011. I have an impression...out of nowhere.
'Pray for You and Bill to become owners of a gym school'.
HUH? Stop, wait, WHAT??
No that's ok God. Bill has a job. He loves it and he makes good money! So I told Bill...he had pretty much the same response. And then I started to pray anyway.
It is now October 2011. Bill has a meeting and is told that 'the new Sixers owners are going in a different direction'. He lost his job. What do we do? We don't have millions of dollars to start up our own gym. After gathering advice from dear friends & family, we began to pursue ownership at the gym we were at. At first it seemed like it could really work. But then red flags & stop signs started popping up all over. We prayed harder than ever. We read through the book of Isaiah together....faith, trust, God's faithfulness, His strength, His promises...were all things we focused on.
We sent an email to Delco Gym. It was short sweet, bold & to the point.
'Do you want to sell your business?'
What we the chances that we would hear back from this gym so close to our home with sending such a lame & desperate email?
WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!
God knew all along that the owner of Delco was ready to pass the baton after a very successful 30 years in the business.
God knew all along that she would be the perfect person to teach us and train us to take over so she could travel.
God knew all along what Bill's gifts are (because He gave them to Bill :) & that he was made for leading & coaching.
God knew all along that my experience homeschooling, administrating and websites (which all began with this little blog:) would come in handy.
God, you knew all along!
We are still in awe of what he has done! Praise HIM from whom all blessings flow!!!!

10:31

2012-01-19T15:22:00.000-08:00

10:31. October 31st. The day I was born. I can't tell you how many time I see a digital clock & it says 10:31.
I feel like it's God's way of telling me how much He loves me.
I was saved from my sins in 1996 when Jesus Christ became a real person in my life. His death on the cross became very real to me. His love for me became very real to me. What did I do to deserve this love? Absolutely nothing. What did I do to NOT deserve it? Lots and Lots. Lately I have been filled with such gratefulness and thankfulness in my life. I feel like God has given me so much. He didn't need to bless me. He doesn't need to lavish love on me...but He does...and it hasn't stopped.
Going through this trial with Bill losing his job brought me to my knees. I have not prayed this much in my entire life. And guess what! He has heard my prayers and answered them. He has closed doors and opened one door. Opened it wide and as we walk through we receive confirmation that "this is the way, walk in it". We can't wait to shout it out and tell everyone what He has done!!! But for now we wait a little...we wait till the papers are signed and an announcement is made. So in the mean time I rejoice and I rest in God's loving arms, in awe of how He loves His children.

New Year Makeover

2012-01-10T11:28:00.000-08:00

Our living room is the darkest place in our home. I attempted to brighten it years ago with a bright yellow color...not a good idea. Yellow looks strange in a low-lit room. The paneling on the walls doesn't help much either. We were planning on ripping the walls down, putting in lights, new dry wall and trim. But when Bill lost his job, I thought let's do a little makeover instead of the whole shabang. So New Years Eve and Day I spent painting. I chose I light beige, Brown Sugar. I bought 2 gallons for $17! What a deal! Then I found some fabric on sale at Joanns and made new curtains & a couple pillows. Lamp shades with my target gift card from mom & dad. The frames were a gift from Nana & Poppy. Voila! A new room for a total cost of $65. Happy New Year everyone! Here's to new beginnings and homier homes!

Christmas Photos

2012-01-05T12:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Play

2011-12-12T16:53:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Play, "Back to the Manger" was a wonderful experience for us all. I really enjoyed teaching Matthew's class & Adrienne's class their dances. Adrienne's class were the 80's aerobicizers. Matthew's class were the bell ringers & Madison's class (girls only) were the 50's poodle skirt hand-jive dancers. The kids loved every minute of the singing and dancing. Thanks for the pics Papa!

IGC

2011-12-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

Since Bill started coaching gymnastics again, he thought it would be good to jump back into the sport & coach at International Gymnastics Camp for their Thanksgiving Clinic. He contacted hid old friend Brent and asked if we could swap, Bill would coach & the girls would stay overnight in a cabin & do gymnastics for 2 days straight. Now this just isn't any old gym. Foam pits as far as the eye can see. 6 inch wide beams instead of 4, all leading to another pit. Spring floors and even a dance gym! The girls had a fantastic time! They met new friends, learned new skills and even had the chance to learn from Olympic Champion Russian gymnast Svetlana Boginskaya! Wow!!! It was a great trip. Bill, Matthew & I stayed in a large room below the Klaus family home. Matthew enjoyed himself too as did I. I even managed a few flips into the pit myself. Not bad for an almost 40 old lady!

We look forward to going back again this summer!

Matthew and the goats

These 2 kids were a little rowdy :)

Matthews mat tower

Adrienne learning her dance

Matthew on PBars

Madison on tumble track

The gymnasts of Cabin #5

Madison's Level 5 Meet

2011-11-21T17:55:00.001-08:00

Heart Dissection

2011-11-03T12:18:00.000-07:00

I guess I was missing my former days in surgery as a PA...because I decided to purchase a sheeps heart & sheeps kidney to dissect. In science we are learning about the human body. We just finished learning about the urinary & circulatory systems so I figured this would be something the kids would remember. I invited a few of Madison's Compass classmates, we had a little lunch & then began to dissect (I figured they wouldn't have much of an appetite after :). It was great. Thankfully I didn't cut through the Mitral valve, so we were able to view it in tact in all it's glory. It is always amazing to see up close how God created these organs to function. It made me marvel at His design and hopefully the kids could marvel right along with me :D

Loss of a Job...But it Never Really was a Job.

2011-10-26T13:25:00.000-07:00

Hip-Hop, the 76ers mascot is no more. On Thursday as Bill was driving in to work, he was listening to sports radio. The talk show host (I won't name names because his name doesn't deserve to be mentioned on my blog) asked the new owners if Hip-Hop was going to be fired. "I've got a big pot of boiling water, let's have some rabbit stew!".
Bill called me with a feeling that it would be his last day...and it was. He was so thankful to be able to thank all the amazing friends & co workers for 14 years of fun. Bill loved his job. It was the perfect job for my energetic-can't-sit-still- let-me-entertain-you husband. We never saw it as a job...it was a way of life for our whole family. Parades, zoos, movie premieres, dunk shows, games, parties...all these things we were able to do as a family. So many skits on the court involved the kids, me, Bill's mom, Madison's soccer team. It was a family thing...wonderful for that fact.
So on Friday morning as Bill walked downstairs and announced " Well...today is the first day of a new season in our lives!" We all cried. We are still so sad to say goodbye to the friends that we have met along the way & the wonderful opportunities we have had as a family. Some things we are not sad to leave. Game nights...Bill working all day and not arriving home till 11pm. Exhausted. The sheer physicalness (is that even a word?) of the job. Him having to be up and energetic even when he is exhausted...he won't miss. Endless piles of sweaty clothes and sweaty stinky rabbit heads hanging in my house...I won't miss.
I typed up a little history of Hip-Hop HERE. It tells Bill's story. We have kept Hip-Hop's identity secret for 14 years. I feel like people should know what an amazing man he is. I want to send it to the press. Bill said no...so I won't. But if I could I would ask them, along with mister talk radio guy...

Did you know that the man in the costume prayed each and every time before he walked out on the court?
Did you know that he was a national champion and the first man to score a perfect 10 in National Championship history?
Did you know he cried inside his rabbit costume when he visited a sick child in the hospital?
Did you know he endured 3 major surgeries during the 14 years and risked his life at times to entertain you?

So what will we do now? We are not sure. Bill will be coaching at the girls gymnastics club more often. His resume is complete and we will be sending it out. We have been praying alot. Praying that the Lord would show us the way. He answered us as I read in Isaiah 30:

"He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry. As soon as He hears it He answers you. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your Teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying 'This is the way, walk in it'.

Teacher, Our Lord, we will wait to hear your voice from behind us saying "This is the way, walk in it."

Hip-Hop 1997-2011

2011-10-23T11:13:00.000-07:00

Emma Rose

2011-10-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

My heart is heavy for my dear friend Steph.

She lost her 3 year old daughter Emma on Friday.

Please pray for her, her husband Ken and Gavin & Mason her brothers.

Lord we do not understand it all.

Your ways are not our ways.

You give & take away but we trust you have a greater plan.

Her Memorial Website

This One is for Poppy

2011-09-29T12:39:00.001-07:00

Crazy September

2011-09-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

School Starts...

Adrienne's Girl Party...

Adrienne & Matthew Family Party...

Gifts...

And more gifts...

Papa's Party...

Matthew's boy party...

and then soccer...

and more soccer...

So long September...I'm going to rest now...October, come quickly...thank you.

Williamsburg Vacation

2011-09-06T16:39:00.000-07:00

Vacation Wirlwind...and Now a Hurricane!

2011-08-27T13:34:00.000-07:00

Well we left early from Williamsburg VA due to hurricane Irene...and actually it was a good thing. After a whole week of beautiful beach weather at the Outer Banks and 5 action packed days at Water Country USA, Busch Gardens and Historic Williamsburg...we were so ready to come home. Vacation was wonderful in every way. Family fun, relaxing, reading, talking, eating, playing...it was wonderful! The time spent with my parents, my sister and her family and my brother & Kati was terrific. Now as we wait to get pounded by Irene...I have plenty of time to look through pictures. Here is a slideshow of my pics from the Outer Banks...enjoy! I hope to put together another slideshow of our time in Virginia...hopefully before the power goes out :)

Madison's 10th Birthday Slideshow

2011-08-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

Yes I know...it was in back in June...but better late than never! Enjoy the slideshow & thanks to Papa for the pics & to the whole family for the wonderful gifts. I'll echo Madison when she said..."This was the BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!!!!!

The Dancing Old Man

2011-08-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

I Love church. I love it because it is there where I experience God in a very real way. There is a man at my church. In his 70's I think. He wears suspenders with a suit every Sunday. He is usually sitting alone. But when that worship music begins...he is no longer sitting. When the music picks up, faster, louder... he starts dancing. And last week, he did it again...and it made me cry. To see this man dance with his arms raised & his face lit up with pure joy...it's like witnessing a little bit of heaven, right there in front of me. I can't look away. Why is he so filled up with joy? He knows a great love. He has been forgiven much so he loves God much. And watching him makes me love God more too.

5th grade is HERE!

2011-07-30T13:28:00.001-07:00

The History of Medicine, Mother Theresa, India, China, Around the World in 80 Days, Genghis Kahn, Eric Liddel, Louis Braille,Aladdin, The Incredible Journey, Blood and Guts, chopsticks, Nutrition, silk worms, Gandhi....and so much more! Currently, Madison has hijacked 2 books and is reading them right now. Matthew wanted to begin putting together the 600 piece global puzzel until I stopped him, and Adrienne is excited about the origami book. I do want the summer to last longer...but all these books get me excited to learn too! And Bill...well he will be more excited after he pays off the visa bill :)

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Spontaneous

2011-07-28T10:02:00.001-07:00

During a crazy busy summer with swim practice 3 mornings a week, gymnastics 2 mornings and swim meets every Wed night and Sat morning...I realize how important it is to create spontaneous fun memories with Bill and the kids. Like sunglass shopping at Claires or more recently letting the kids play and dance in the rainstorm the other day. Madison said it was the 'best time ever' and was hoping for rain the next night. With Madison now 10 I am realizing my time with them at home with us will be so short in the span of my life. Lord help me see them as the true blessings they are and tresure them. Help me be spontaneous and delight in them...just like you delight in us...your children. Amen.

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Junior Lifeguards

2011-07-10T06:21:00.000-07:00

I love our pool & the opportunities it provides...swim team, lessons, meeting new friends...and lots of fun! I introduce to you the new junior lifeguards at the Brookhaven Swim Club!

4th of July on Grand Island

2011-07-03T11:00:00.001-07:00

Having a blast! Water fights, swimming pool, old family videos, boat ride, good food, and Fantasy Island!

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Swimming A!

2011-06-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

Swim season has begun!!! The girls are doing well so far. Adrienne's last meet she was so beautiful in the backstroke & won her race! She was built for speed that little one. I am so proud of her!

The House Finch

2011-06-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

Every spring I see the robins stand in front of our front porch, gazing into our porch with visions of perfectly safe & dry nests to lay their eggs. Well after the first time we let a robin build her nest, and bird mites infested our porch furniture (not fun at all), we decided to put little stuffed animals in each corner of the porch to prevent little mama robins from building their nests. I thought I was home free...until I saw this little grey bird fly out of my fern hanging on the porch. (Great picture courtesy of Papa)

And then we looked inside the fern and found her little nest filled with 5 speckled eggs...

Daddy finch is very involved...always keeping lookout for the very loud human named Matthew who can be quite unpredictable and did I mention loud :)

But even though...I think they like their little home.

Looking forward to meeting baby finches soon!

Daddy's Love

2011-06-23T09:54:00.000-07:00

The scene: Gymnastics Championships.

Adrienne Elise just finished performing on floor.

She did the most beautiful round-off backhandspring all by her self for the first time.

Running over to her dad (coach Bill) yelling 'I did it!!".

This picture was taken by a friend. It brought tears to my eyes.

Philly Mud Run

2011-06-16T10:17:00.000-07:00

Proud of my guy for setting a goal & completing the Mud Run!

10k race with 30 obstacles...most of them in the mud.

Here are some shots.

And maybe next year I can drum up enough courage to do it with him!

Foot in the face :)

Adrienne cheering her daddy on...

And the finish!

Double Digits!!

2011-06-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

She is 10! My first baby! This spunky, fun, energetic, beautiful, smart girl turned 10 yesterday!

The day began with her opening her little gift...a heart locket with pictures of her family inside.
Something she has been asking for for a while now...(she also got a bike since she outgrew her old one).
We then had a 'big breakfast'...eggs bacon, chocolate chip pancakes and bagels.
Then the fun began...Hip-Hop & Mini Hip-Hop made an appearance at the premiere of Mr. Popper's Penguins...and we got to go also! It was a blast! We read the book when Madison was in K or 1st grade...I cant remember. The movie was funny & the kids loved it!!! (I actually think the book was better).
Then it was off to the gym where Madison shared brownies with all her team friends.
10 years has flown by...and I am amazed to see Madison grow into a young lady...full of life! She adds so much laughter & fun to our family & I thank God for blessing us...with Madison Elizabeth!!!

Awards Night

2011-06-08T08:17:00.001-07:00

Introducing...Madison Roth, Developmental Gymnast of the Year and winner of the 'Spirit Award'. And Adrienne Roth, Outstanding Balance Beam winner! So proud of my girls finishing their first year competing gymnastic! Go my girls go!!!!!

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Testing

2011-06-06T16:52:00.001-07:00

Just testing my new blogger droid app so I can post from my phone....oh yeah! How did I do? Btw...that's Matthew vs the cow :)

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Spelling Bee Party!

2011-05-31T07:10:00.000-07:00

Last Year, Madison really wanted to be in a Spelling Bee. It all started after watching the movie Akelah & the Bee. So this year I thought I would invite her friends from our homeschool co-op COMPASS. It was so much fun! These kids were all so respectful & even encouraged one another when they misspelled a word. Madison loved every minute of it! (Except when she lost spelling the word 'immediate'). We had pizza, lots of orange soda, fruit & cookies. They played scrabble & tag outside. Here is a short slideshow of the fun...enjoy!

Create your own slideshow

Devo Championship Meet

2011-05-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

10 Reasons Why I Hate the Telephone

2011-05-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Let me just start by saying I am sorry to all my husband, my friends & family I should have called but didn't. You see...I have issues. Issues with the telephone. I can email you, facebook or text you...all those are just fine. But the phone...I hate it. So please accept my apology...
I do love you...I mean it!

1. Running to grab the phone & by the time I pick it up, the answering machine is now talking in both of our ears.

2. The horrible sound it makes...especially when you are dog tired and are almost falling asleep on the couch.

3. Is it bad news? Someone calling to yell at me? My heart beats a little faster when that phone rings!

4. What if you have no idea who it is...even after they tell you their name & still have no clue.

5. I am convinced as I am on the telephone in an important conversation, the radio waves travel to my children's brains and cause them to fight, argue, yell, scream and immediately run to me for help...putting an end to my important conversation.

6. Who says goodbye first? Was I rude? Did they want to talk longer? Why did I say that? What did that mean?

7. My brain goes into 'safe mode'. I cannot remember even the simplest vocabulary words or express the thoughts in a clear & intelligent way..."Well...you know what I mean, right?"

8. Call Waiting still confuses me :) I often hang up on one or both of the callers.

9. I can't sit still when I am on the phone...I pace, wander, doodle, fold things.
(I did just learn how to empty the dishwasher while I am on the phone...this is a big step for this wannabe multi-tasker :)

10. The phone doesn't let me talk with my hands...like the true Italian I am.

Camp Sankanak

2011-05-04T12:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took a field trip to a christian camp...Camp Sankanak with all of our friends from our homeschool co-op. The weather was just gorgeous! The kids took hikes, learned about plants, and even went canoeing & row boating. It was a blast. We are so blessed to be a part of such a wonderful homeschool group!

Easter Fun!

2011-04-26T11:21:00.000-07:00

My mom & dad, sister, John, Jordyn & Jenna came for Easter on Friday. It was so nice to just hang around with them and chat. We prepped for the big Easter meal on Saturday since Bill had an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday and a game on Sunday. The meal turned out really good. My dad bought a delicious ham and I found a recipe for a sweet gravy to go with mashed potatoes.

It's basically pineapple juice, cherry juice, 2 cups of water & the ham. I'm not a big ham fan...but mashed potatoes & gravy (bring it on!). I also made homemade applesauce that was so easy & went well with the ham too. Asparagrass (as we call it), salad (to make us feel like we were eating healthy) and Sister Shubert's yeast rolls. I'm always happy when the meal tastes good cause when I'm cooking...it's really hit or miss :). Then we had pies, my sisters oatmeal choc. chip cookies & mom's easter cupcakes.

Sunday morning, the kids woke up at 6...I threatened them to go back to sleep till 7 :) And then they found their easter baskets.

Church was awesome on Sunday! You know it's good when you don't want to leave at the end...you just want to continue worshipping. We learned about heaven & the resurrection. My favorite is watching grown men, our pastors, up front, jumping up & down with joy. This always makes me smile & wonder how many will be jumping in heaven!!

After church the kids had an easter egg hunt that my sister & John prepared & the Easter Bunny even came to visit...he was on his way down to the Sixers game to visit his cousin Hip-Hop.

My mom & I took Jordyn & Madison to see Hop and on Monday we had breakfast at Tom Jones & said goodbye. It was a great weekend. I was sad Bill had to work so much on this special holiday but so grateful to be with my family.

My Thoughts on Heaven

2011-04-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Everyone! I am looking forward to having my parents, my sister, John, Jordyn & Jenna visit this weekend. I am a little sad that Bill will be working on Saturday and Easter Sunday...but I am also aware that we are not limited to one day of celebrating the death & resurrection of our Savior. It is something we should celebrate every day!
Sunday's message was about our own resurrection & what our bodies will be like when we rise from the dead. It had me thinking about heaven.
I have this vision of me entering heaven...beautiful light, beautiful place...so beautiful that it takes my breath away. I see a man coming towards me. He is beautiful. He looks at me like He has known me my whole life...because He has. He is smiling & glowing. He hugs me & I am engulfed in His arms. He steps back and holds out his hands to me. I look down & see the holes where the nails were. But I also see in glowing script engraved on his hand my name...Christina Lynne. I cannot stand because I am overwhelmed by this love and this joy. He stands me up. Brushes the tears away from my eyes, puts his arm around me & shows me around. This is just the beginning...the rest of it...I do not know now...but I will. Not sure when. Hopefully when I am very old & had the chance to tell my great grandchildren about Jesus. All I know is...my life is in His hands. And I should not fear, but anticipate that day with hope & joy.

Hip-Hop & His Friend

2011-04-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Whose Bed is This?

2011-04-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

Two nights ago, on our way to bed, Bill and I checked on the kids, and in the girls' room...found this..

Whose bed is this you ask? Because it looks like Madison's bed...seeing she has taken over the entire thing with no regard that her sister is in the bed with her :)

It's Adrienne's bed.

This kind little soul found pity on her big sister, who was having trouble sleeping, and agreed to let her sleep with her. Little did she know, she would soon be mauled by her, with little chance of escape. I cannot fault my Madison...she sleeps just like her mom.

Just ask Bill.

The Latest Book

2011-04-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

I hated History. It was all the same to me...American, World...Boring!
I failed the History Regents exam & had to take it again. It never clicked for me. Homeschooling my kids has opened my own eyes to the amazing, interesting, heroic and sometimes horrific history of our Country. We are studying the post Civil War era and reading this book to the kids. It's about a black family in Mississippi after the Civil War and how they struggled. Stories of the children walking miles to school, passed everyday by the white school children's bus, driven by a bus driver who tries running the black kids off the road everyday. Of white men burning black families' homes, and also murder. This book has evoked some pretty strong emotions in me & also in the kids. Tears of anger and sadness. I cannot imagine what it was like for these families. What injustice they experienced!!! And oh what an easy life we live!!! I am so glad to be learning right along with them...and grateful for this new perspective I have...and we are only on chapter 5!

Am I a Fool?

2011-03-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

Found this great post HERE.

1. A foolish woman is easily enticed by the world. "If sinners entice you, do not consent. If they say . . . ‘We shall find all precious goods, we shall fill our houses with plunder; throw in your lot among us; we will all have one purse” . . . do not walk in the way with them; hold back your foot from their paths” (1:10–15). A woman easily enticed by the world is also often materialistic and ambitious for success by the world’s standards. She allows worldly philosophies to shape her understanding about everything. For such a woman, self-esteem and self-worth can seem to her more valuable than following Christ in a lifestyle of self-denial.

2. A foolish woman believes the lie that security lies in material blessings: "Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will flourish like a green leaf" (11:28).

3. A foolish woman hates knowledge. She is one who shuns, ignores, disdains, scorns, or rationalizes away biblical wisdom and counsel. She lives by the dictates of her emotions, and she insists on fulfilling her personal desires and believes that her way of thinking is always the right way. To such a woman Proverbs asks, “How long, O simple ones, will you love being simple? How long will scoffers delight in their scoffing and fools hate knowledge?” (1:22).

4. A foolish woman is complacent. A complacent woman is contented with a mediocre Christian life. She fails to grasp the truth that there is no middle road, no fence-sitting, when it comes to discipleship; we are at all times either going forward or going backward. “The complacency of fools will destroy them” (1:32).

5. A foolish woman is lazy. Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise" (6:6). The ant-like principle of industriousness applies equally to spiritual matters and to every other area of our lives. Proverbs issues a call to exercise ourselves toward wisdom and good judgment in all our ways and relationships. Foolish women tend to sit back and wait for it all to just magically happen.

6. A foolish woman is sinfully independent. She seeks autonomy from God and others. “A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; he rages against all wise judgment” (18:1)

Carlisle Meet

2011-03-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest gym meet video...so proud of our girls!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-03-15T08:58:00.000-07:00

The kids & I returned from visiting my parents yesterday. It was nice to lay around, chat, see Gnomeo & Juliet and watch Jenna compete in the Niagara Cup. She did great & got 2nd on vault, 4th on bars and 6th all around! I was so proud of her!

It was also nice to see my gymnastics coaches and catch up with them. The kids were a bit tired & difficult for me at times, but honestly it was all worth it to see the kids enjoy being with Gege & Papa.

Thanks mom & dad for going out of your way to make our stay special. From reading to Madison about World War 1, taking the kids to Niagara Falls and to a movie, playing checkers with Matthew, and getting them their favorite cereal.You created memories for them that they & I will always cherish.

And Happy Birthday Mom! Enjoy your day! I love you!

A Nice Surprise

2011-03-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

It's Monday morning. I just finished Bible, Geography & Science and was giving Madison her spelling test when I heard honking outside. When I looked outside I saw the Hip-Hop van and shouted "Daddy's home!" He & Christian appeared on our front porch...my husband with these beautiful flowers in his hand. My immediate thought..."I don't deserve these flowers".
The past couple weeks have been very difficult for Bill & I. He has literally been working non-stop...games, reading programs, open practices, etc. He has had no time to be home with us...and honestly...it stinks. He's beyond exhausted. Me...well lets just say being with the kids 24/7 can wear on you a little. We miss him. Adrienne cried last night because she "missed daddy". "I miss him too", I told her.
I always wait up for Bill after his games. Partly because I know it blesses him and partly because I can't sleep until I know he's home safe. Last night he got home and our conversation quickly went downhill until I was taking out all my frustration of the day on him. It was not pretty & he in no way deserved my rant. I was angry at him for having to work so much. (You would think in moments like this I would remember that he works so hard so that I can be home with my kids!!!) He was patient with me & waited for me to cool down & I eventually apologized...but I was sad that I behaved that way. This home is our haven...a safe place, a place Bill enjoys coming home to after working all day & all night...and I want to keep it that way. So thank you honey for blessing me today with the visit & flowers...it meant so much & reminded me of God's grace to me. Instead of getting from Bill anger, opposition, sarcastic comments, guilt trips, bitterness, and the silent treatment...he gave me flowers.
This is love...and I am overwhelmed by it today.

Crayola Factory

2011-03-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

Scrapbook design created with Smilebox

Another Great Sonlight Book

2011-02-22T08:48:00.000-08:00

Bill just finished reading "Little Britches" by Ralph Moody to the kids last night. What a great book. Bill, myself & the girls were all crying at the end. The story takes place on a ranch in Colorado in 1906. We read about Little Britches in school dealing with a bully, how the family escaped a tornado, and struggled to just put food on the table. We read about faith and honor & standing up to do the right thing. The father dies from an infection after a horse accident in the end (sorry if I spoiled it for you:). Here is an excerpt from the last paragraph:

"Father had always said grace before meals; always the same twenty-five words, and the ritual was always the same. Mother would look around the table to see that everything was in readiness; then she would nod to father. That night she nodded to me, and I became a man."

Just Because it's Funny

2011-02-16T08:36:00.001-08:00

Kids Stole My Camera

2011-02-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

Boys Campout

2011-02-07T10:13:00.000-08:00

Life can be hard for a little boy with 2 older sisters. Just ask my brother about being dressed up in a pink tutu, being coaxed out of his crib at night just so that he would get into trouble when he didn't know how to climb back in, and everything else that goes along with it...I know...mean wasn't it. I remember my sister and I yelling to my parents..."Jonathan's out of his Cri-iiib!!" and hearing his little footstep racing back to his room.
Matthew can relate. For the most part, the girls include him & they play really well together. But there are times when he sees the girls play together & sleep in the same room, that makes him a little sad & maybe wish for a buddy all his own. Don't think I havent tried coaxing Bill to try for another baby...I have, but he's not giving in...and honestly I think my body has given up in that department anyway. So I talked with Bill about how important it is that Matthew has a strong relationship with his daddy. I want my son to follow after his daddy's example...to some day be a godly man who protects & guards his family, loves & cherishes his wife & willing to sacrafice for the sake of his kids.
So Bill came up with this camping idea...and boy was Matthew excited! They had treats, read books and played in the tent...and in the morning, even had a little chance to snuggle. So while I do not think Matthew will have a brother...his daddy will always be his best buddy!

This Smile Makes My Heart Melt

2011-02-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

My little man...Oh how I love him so!

Finished Finally!

2011-01-25T07:39:00.000-08:00

It's been almost 3 years since we put the addition on to our home and it's nice to say that the decorating in our master bedroom is finally finished! Since we had the room built, I imagined this traditional cottage style room in blue. We were used to being in such small rooms before, where we only had room for a bed, a dresser & an armoire. This room is now so much bigger that it was really fun to be able to add a desk, a bookshelf, 2 sitting chairs and now.....MY MIRROR!!!!!

I always wanted a pretty cheval mirror and saw it everywhere in brown...but I wanted it in white or antique color. Last week my mother-in-law and father-in-law came to visit and walked through the front door with this big box. They found a white cheval mirror at the Christmas Tree Store & picked it up for me....YAY! Poppy put it together & I carried it up to our room & voila! Isn't it pretty?
Thanks Nana & Poppy! I love my new mirror!

Meet Mini Hip-Hop

2011-01-20T12:34:00.001-08:00

A digital slideshow by Smilebox

First Meet

2011-01-17T16:18:00.000-08:00

The girls had their very first gymnastics meet. It was a mock meet with no judges or scores. A good starting place for them. They were both excited & nervous & we had many conversations about 'butterflies' the morning of the meet. You'll notice Adrienne does a cartwheel on beam because this is in the level 5 routine & they are hopefully progressing to level 5 next year. Only a couple girls were ready to try the cartwheel on the high beam. I missed filming bars because my flip video needed new batteries. We are so proud of the girls. Hope you enjoy the video.

Send Them on the Bus

2011-01-14T08:40:00.000-08:00

Some days I wonder what my life would be like if I just sent them on the bus...all 3.
Kisses & hugs, zip up the coat, hand them their lunch, and wave goodbye.
Would I love it? Would I work? Would I teach aerobics or spinning? Would I take naps? Would I go out to lunch with friends? Would I wander around Home Goods to my hearts content? Would my house be tidy & clean all the time? I wonder.
These thoughts come into my head occasionally...on those days when fighting, whining and bad attitudes fill my day.
But then there are days like Wednesday. Adrienne's assignment was to write in her journal. As we talked about it she started to cry. "What if I spell the words wrong?"
"It's ok Adrienne...spell them the way they sound, I won't correct them, as long as you try."
More tears.
So I sat with her on my bed and opened up my journal. I write my prayers to God in my journal. I started doing this in 1996, when I got saved. Today I have about 6 journals that contain my struggles, my fears, bible verses, victories, words of thanksgiving, and words of anger...all of it.
I read one entry to Adrienne. I told her my writing was not perfect, but the words come from my heart. and one day when I am gone, my children & grandchildren will read these journals, and know what was in my heart and how the Lord met me right where I was at. I encouraged Adrienne to write her prayers if she wanted to. To write whatever was in her heart. Was she scared about her meet this weekend? Was she angry, sad, happy? I kissed and, told her I loved her & left her alone.
And then she wrote...."Lord help me I nede you help I wot too tern too you Love Adrienne"
She was so excited. I encouraged her & she has written 5 more times in her journal.
Then I thought...I would have missed it. If I sent her on the bus. I would have missed it and so much more!
I don't believe homeschooling is for every family...but for ours right now, it works and we believe it's what is best for our kids. What a wonderful opportunity for me to take hold of these moments with my kids...maybe even prepare them for the day they do get on that bus.

Christmas Memories Slideshow

2011-01-05T14:58:00.001-08:00

A free slideshow by Smilebox

Happy 1111

2011-01-01T18:41:00.000-08:00

2011! I can't believe another year has come and gone...it seems to go faster and faster every year!
Today was supposed to be rest day but it was definitely a work day. The tree, the decorations, the toys, the gifts, the closets, the rugs, the dishes....all are done, (wait...not the dishes yet...there is still a looming pile of dishes in the sink...it can wait).
Christmas was fantastic! It started on the 18th with the Roths...lots of food and even more presents. The van was bursting as we drove home from Lancaster.
Christmas Eve was terrific. Steak dinner, the church for worship & candle lighting. I can never really enjoy the candle lighting though...between Madison almost lighting a woman's white winter coat that hung on the chair in front of us on fire, to Matthew trying to spill his wax all over his seat...it's better I don't look away from them to enjoy the singing. Then the kids changed into their jammies in the car...which was a hilarious project in itself. Then we enjoyed dunkin donuts while driving around looking at lights.
Christmas day was perfect...the kids loved all their presents and always reward us with their exuberant shouts & thank you's...I love how my kids are so expressive & excited....and thankful for their gifts.
Then we all hopped in the car & headed to Grand Island.
The true Christmas miracle was that it never snowed & was actually SUNNY in Cortland & Syracuse!!!Thank you LORD for nice driving weather! At my parents we talked, laughed, ate, opened gifts, ate, slept, ate, opened more gifts, ate...well you get the picture. We played the wii at Dee & John's, (my sister won....I call for a rematch!!!) and we saw the 3rd Narnia movie...best one so far I thought...it was terrific!
So that was our Christmas in a nutshell. My heart is filled with thankfulness & love for my family & for all I have been blessed with. So 2011...bring it on. I'll end with this Piper quote:
"God promises new troubles (Mat. 6:34), new mercies (Lam 3:23), and new hope (2 Cor 4:16) for every day this year.
PS...pictures soon to come!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

I'm convinced that no matter how early I begin preparing for Christmas...I am ALWAYS rushing around last minute to get the last stocking stuffers. I am ready now...I think. Gifts wrapped. Cookies made. Cards sent. Crafts finished. And now we are all excited. I am 38 years old & still get giddy opening presents! Bring it on!!! I have another reason to feel giddy...full of joy.
Every Christmas I think about my salvation. 14 years ago...my new life in Christ began...and it gives Christmas a greater meaning to me than ever before. That day, an amzing gift was offered to me. I opened it. And it changed me inside and out. And HE continues to change me...thank you Lord...for this amazing gift...your Son...fully man and fully God...this gives us a reason to celebrate!
MERRY JOYFUL GIDDY HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
Love,
The Happy Five

Real Men Fold Laundry

2010-12-14T06:26:00.000-08:00

Yes...real men...men who love their wives unconditionally, men who are considerate, men who are diligent, men who are patient, and men who are kind.

This photo would be me...if not for my man.

Thank you Bill...for folding laundry. Thank you that even though you work hard all day long & deserve to plop your body down on the couch and veg in front of the tv...you fold the clothes.

THIS is LOVE!

Thank you honey...I owe you...BIG TIME!!!

Searching For Christmas

2010-12-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

This year's Christmas Play was wonderful. I feel so blessed that my 3 kids get to be a part of such a wonderful production. Many homeschoolers do not have this same opportunity! How fun to see them all on stage, dancing & singing! I hope you enjoy the slideshow...thanks to my dad for taking such great pictures!

My Dancin' 3

2010-11-29T19:44:00.000-08:00

Thought you'd all like this video of the kids playing "The Michael Jackson Experience" on Wii.

I never thought I'd see my 3 kids dance to the song "Bad".

It's hilarious...hope you like it!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-24T20:30:00.000-08:00

Love,

Madison, Adrienne, and Sharky

Hiding it in My Heart

2010-11-15T10:55:00.000-08:00

As a Christian I want God to use me.
I want my life to be fruitful and to be able to love my family & friends.
I want my life to reflect God's love...His truth, His grace & His mercy.
I have learned recently that if I am not reading God's Word, the bible, regularly, how can I expect to live a fruitful life?
How can I help my children and love my husband if God's Word is not in me?
Psalm 119:11 says "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."
So I have decided to be more diligent in memorizing scripture.
Pslam 63 came to mind...so here it goes...the first part anyway:
"Oh God you are my God, earnestly I seek you.
My soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you;
in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
I have seen you in the sanctuary, and beheld your power and your glory;
because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I lift up my hands.
My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods;
With singing lips my mouth will praise you.
On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night."

TO BE CONTINUED...

Puppet Show

2010-11-09T07:56:00.000-08:00

Adrienne & Matthew's Puppet Show.

A story about a lonely Lion and his journey to meet friends Hippo & Monkey.

It's always good to pray before you play :)

A Bunch of Gym Rats!

2010-11-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

That's what we all are...daddy, mommy, and all the kids. I loved it and so did Bill. The film of chalk dust floating through the air, the familiar smell of sweaty feet that seems to be the same in every gym you visit, mats, pits, trampolines, bars, beams, ropes hanging from the wall and ceiling. Jumping on the tramp until your head felt like it would bounce off. Landing in the foam pit with your whole body covered in foam and wriggling your way out...ignoring the fact that you left one sock behind.We always knew we would watch our kids do gymnastics...it just seemed natural that they would love the sport too...and they do...for now anyway. Yesterday they received their very first team leotard & team sweatsuit. They were so excited & we were excited for them. The girls are on the 'Devo' team or Developmental Team. They are working on the Level 5 routines and will have 3 mock meets in February & March to prepare them to hopefully compete next year. Bill is able to coach them...which makes this whole experience even better. The girls LOVE having 'coach Bill' there & they have mentioned how safe they feel with him spotting them. We do not know what this sport holds for my girls...and even my son, but for right now...we remain...Gym Rats!

"I'm FREEEEEEEEZIN!"

2010-11-03T09:19:00.000-07:00

This is what I say often during Fall & Winter. It makes Bill laugh because I say it with such annoyance. I hate being cold....hate it...HATE IT! Yes I know I grew up near Buffalo...I should be used to it by now. Maybe so. When I was young I was diagnosed with Raynauds Phenomenon...which is a big word for my toes & fingers would turn completely white & cold & be lack of any blood whatsoever. It was quite fun showing this to my gymnastics coach when I was little. He would pick me up & run me to the kitchen to run warm water over my stark white toes...for fear that at any moment the little toe would fall right off into the sink. As I got older it would happen to my fingers as well...and not just when I was cold but nervous too. It is strange. My girlfriend Paula got me little warmers to put in my shoes & pockets...so as I type, my little piggies are toasty & quite happy...thanks Paula!!! So in order to be thankful to God for creating the seasons, even the cold ones...here are 10 things I like about the Fall...

1. The heating blanket on my bed turned up to level 10
2. Soft Fuzzy Jammies and Warm Fluffy Socks
3. Taking a bubble bath just to get warm again
4. My Birthday's in the fall :)
5. Fall candles lit in the house after it's all clean & picked up
6. Walking on crinkly dry leaves & the sound it makes
7. Leaf fights with the family in the backyard
8. The Huge supply of Halloween Candy that lasts until Easter
9. Family movie nights on the couch under a blanket
10. Eating soup!

Computer Crashed!

2010-10-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

My computer crashed! We have a Dell XPS All in one...only 3 years old. It's been slow & freezing on me. A few weeks ago I realized it gets real hot on top, and then realized that I never hear the internal fan run.
Thankfully, Bill bought me a laptop for our anniversary. Thankfully it was still under warranty and thankfully the people at Dell are terrific. I chatted on my laptop with a woman named grace, who ordered me new parts. And at this time, Mr. Jim has opened up my computer and a new one and began transferring all the important memory parts onto the new one. madison took one look at ours and said "Mom, theres the fan & it's covered in dust...I bet that's why it wasn't working right!". Mr. Jim agreed. As the girls and I looked on, we noticed that a couple of the tiny parts looked like electromagnets (the science topic for the week). Mr. Jim gave us a quick talk on the use of electromagnets in computers...pretty neat. Then madison saw a little Greek symbol on one of the parts. Madison reminded me that it was the symbol for Ohm...the measurement for resistance. Isn't it just like God to take something annoying, like my computer & turn it into an interesting science lesson...I love when that happens!

Lancaster Field Trip Day

2010-10-21T11:20:00.000-07:00

I packed the kids up Wednesday morning and met Nana & Poppy at the Herr's potato chip factory where we got see how all the chips & pretzel are made. We got to eat chips right off the conveyor belt...warm & crispy to perfection! No other chips can compare now! We also visited the Science Factory which was a huge warehouse filled with fun science exhibits, puzzles, and learning stations. The kids ran from place to place...we had the whole place to ourselves! The greatest part was that everything represented in the Science Factory was exactly what we were learning in science! Electricity, magnetism, energy and force. How much better were they learning science there than sitting in a classroom with a boring science textbook! Enjoy the pics...and KUDOS to Poppy for planning out such a great field trip day!

My Soccer Stars

2010-10-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

Here are a few shots of the girls doing soccer. They have really enjoyed playing this year since daddy is their coach (for Madison's team) and also because they have scored goals this year. Adrienne's been doing so well. She is very fast and is able to get to the ball alot quicker than the other girls & be able to score. Madison has really improved her ball handling skills & kick. They are both really good in goal. I'm not a huge soccer fan...but I am a huge fan of my soccer stars!!!

Apple Pie

2010-10-08T08:35:00.000-07:00

While Bill was away for a week in Virginia, Gege came to stay with us. She was a blessing. She made soup, did laundry, did dishes, read & entertained the kids and was a very good teacher's aide. It was really nice having the time to chat and watch her enjoy the kids. It's hard not living closer, so we really cherish these special times. Here's some pictures of the apple pie we made from the apples we picked at Linvilla. Gege did most of it, while I watched so I could do it next time. I was surprised how easy it was. It tasted just as good as it looks with vanilla/caramel ice cream on the side...mmmm.
**Had to do the before & after shots**

First Field Trip

2010-09-30T12:07:00.000-07:00

I have been reading this book for Science to the kids called Diary of an Early American Boy. The author found the diary of 15 year old Noah Blake written in 1805. It speaks of Noah & his family and how they lived back in those days. It also includes pictures & diagrams of a mill they built and the tools they made to buid the mill. It actually started off pretty boring.

So one morning last week it was unusually warm. I thought we should get out & do something fun. So I googled Pennsylvania Mills and found the Newlin Grist Mill was only 15 minutes away and the next tour was at 2pm. I packed a lunch and when we arrived, the woman had also read the same book we were reading. We had some time to waste so the kids LOVED playing in the creek. They didn't want to leave! On the tour we saw the mill run and watched it grind corn into flour. We also visited the original house which was so neat to see how they lived 200 years ago!

This is why I love homeschooling. It was a spur of the moment trip but will most likely be one of the highlites of our school year! The trip took this once boring book & made it come to life!
Enjoy the pics...
Oh & I almost forgot. Madison found a very old rusty nail near the mill & they kept it to show to the archeologist. A little piece of history...Madison was happy. Just that day we read how when they built things they never used nails because they would rust & rot the wood...pretty cool.

13 and 20

2010-09-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to my biggest blog fan & follower!
Together for 20 years!!! Holy COW! That is more than half of my entire life!
And married for 13.
I'll never forget that day.
I never smiled more than on that day.
And I never felt more beautiful than on that day.
The weather was perfect.
The church was small...but perfect too.
Pastor Weed read from Ecclesiastes 4:12 "a threefold cord is not quickly broken".
It is true.
Thank you Lord...
You took our relationship which was tattered & torn
And you made it new.

I love you Bill...for the man you are & the man God is making you.

Back to School!

2010-09-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

School for us started Friday. The morning started off with a scavenger hunt with a few little treats at the end. Bill then took all 3 to TJ's for the Blue Ribbon Special while I dressed in my best teacher dress (this will most likely be the last time they will see teacher all dressed up :). I then had some extended time to pray. Teaching all 3 this year brings with it some worry and trepidation...and excitement as well. So when they all arrived home I greeted them outside and introduced myself. They laughed & Matthew said...."mooooommmmmm...I know it's you!" My goal for this year is to 1. really focus on Math & reading with Adrienne. 2. Begin math & writing with Matthew as well as encourage him to keep reading his little books. and 3. Encourage more independence in Madison...doing her work without asking mom for help. 4. Enjoy school and most importantly 5. encourage godly character as they interact with each other & with Bill & I. It is a huge task I know. But after watching a great movie last night called Facing the Giants, I am reminded that NOTHING is impossible with God on my side!

What About Glenn Beck, Politics & Christianity?

2010-09-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything political lately...but that doesn't mean I stopped watching Fox & listening to Beck and Hannity. Mostly I listen to figure out why people hate them so much :) And come on...have I really the right to judge them? Or do I? But I often find myself wondering "what stance should I have? What should my opinion be on all of this left vs right thinking?" I am a Christian so my perspective should be biblical. I found this blog by Russell Moore that has a good post on the recent rally in Washington. Here's a little bit of what he said:

"The answer to this scandal isn’t a retreat, as some would have it, to an allegedly apolitical isolation. Such attempts lead us right back here, in spades, to a hyper-political wasteland. If the churches are not forming consciences, consciences will be formed by the status quo, including whatever demagogues can yell the loudest or cry the hardest. The answer isn’t a narrowing sectarianism, retreating further and further into our enclaves. The answer includes local churches that preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, and disciple their congregations to know the difference between the kingdom of God and the latest political whim.

It’s sad to see so many Christians confusing Mormon politics or American nationalism with the gospel of Jesus Christ. But, don’t get me wrong, I’m not pessimistic. Jesus will build his church, and he will build it on the gospel. He doesn’t need American Christianity to do it. Vibrant, loving, orthodox Christianity will flourish, perhaps among the poor of Haiti or the persecuted of Sudan or the outlawed of China, but it will flourish.

And there will be a new generation, in America and elsewhere, who will be ready for a gospel that is more than just Fox News at prayer."

Vacation 2010

2010-08-30T10:53:00.000-07:00

Vacation came & went...I still am amazed by how fast summer flys! We drove to Hilton Head on Saturday morning and stayed at a Holiday Inn that took time share points. It was tough all being in one small hotel room...especially since Madison was coughing all night. The good part about this was we spent alot of time together which was nice. Also the Hotel had a great pool and it was right on the beach! So after swimming in the ocean you could just jump right into the pool. I especially liked the pool...I have never been an ocean girl ever since watching Jaws...and the jellyfish stinging me and Adrienne didn't help out either. Those suckers really hurt! It burned for like 2 hours and then left this swollen red brush burn mark...yikes. Anyhow...on Wednesday we drove to Orlando to go to Aquatica (Sea World's waterpark) on Thursday and drove back to SC on Friday. Aquatica was fun...especially Roa's Rapids. You put a life vest on & it's like floating in a really fast river...a total blast! We stayed at Nana & Poppy's time share at Orange Lake. This was a nice break from the beach at HHI. On Saturday we moved into our townhome. Here we rode bikes all around the Island searching out alligators, spent time on the beach fishing & flying kites. At night when the kids were pooped, we enjoyed playing "Spite & Malice" a fun card game with Nana & Poppy...of course it was more fun when Bill & I won :) We also did pony rides at the local horse stable where we met Harley. He was the sweetest horse I ever met!!! He came right up to us & ate grass out of our hands, let us pet him & he especially loved Matthew. He nuzzled him on his back & head, he almost knocked him off the fence he was standing on! I also read 2 big books from Francine Rivers' series The Mark of the Lion...great books...I cried through them!
Such wonderful memories we have...I am so grateful!
I feel refreshed & ready to take on the new schoolyear!

Happy 40th Bill!

2010-08-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a little slide show of Bill's surprise Party...thanks for the picture CD dad & for taking all those great pictures!
Happy 40th to my honey. I know it isn't official till the 21st but since we'll be soaking in the South Carolina sun and far away from this computer...I thought I would tell you now.
I love you babe! And though 40 may bring a few more greys...you are more handsome now than you were at 20!
Thanks for being an amazing husband and father...and the best best friend any girl could have.
I love you...SHMILY!

No More Surprises!!!

2010-08-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

Well...Bill's 40th surprise was a huge success. 80 people (40 kids), lots of silly string, 8 boxes of pizza, a ton of fruit, and 2 cakes!!! Yes 2 cakes. The first one toppled due to the shear weight of Hip-Hop sitting on top (fondant Hip-Hop that is). I felt like I was in an episode of Cake Boss! All the planning went pretty smooth but the whole thing was stressful! I actually lost 4 pounds in the process...woohooo! (but probably gained it all back eating cake :) Could not have done it without the help of my parents who brought food and worked like crazy helping me set it all up...I was grateful they came!!! Bill was so blessed by all his friends, the cards & gifts...and just being with all the people he loves so much. That was my goal...so it was a success. I don't think I will put myself through it again...but who knows...when Bill turns 50, I may have forgotten about the 40th by then :)

Thank You...

2010-08-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you Jesus for saving me...

Fun at the Pool 2010

2010-07-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

Follow Me!

2010-07-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

My girlfriends asked if they could follow me...my blog.
So if you click on the "Follow" Icon to the left and enter your google or yahoo account, I believe you will be notified when I do a new post. Seeing as I don't update my poor blog every day...I thought this would be fun to try. So follow me if you like...and thanks for coming back to read about our crazy family, and read all my misspellings, poor grammer, and scattered thoughts :)

Why I Read & Thoughts on Marriage

2010-07-19T11:21:00.000-07:00

I was never a reader. My mom would tell you. I would rather be doing something else. I always wished I could love it like my sister & my mom. Just sit with a good book in my lap and devour it happily. The reason for this is probably that my comprehension of what I read is pretty poor, so I have to slow down and really focus. Otherwise I end up reading the same paragraph over & over again. As I grew older I learned how to cope. In PA school I learned how to skim my medical books and highlite the important info I would need to learn for the test & actually was very successful doing this.
After I became a Christian and began reading the bible I realized that I had been missing out on alot of wisdom. The bible was full of it. Other books too. So now when I read I really want it to count. A good fictional book that has a great life lesson in it or one that makes me cry in the end...I love those. But mostly I read books that I can use to encourage me along as a Christian. To help me be a better wife to Bill and a mom to Mad, A, and Matthew. I want to grow & learn. I hate feeling complacent and stuck...so I read.
My girlfriend Barb gave me a wonderful book on marriage called Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas. The title says this, "What if God designed marriage to make us holy more than happy?" Interesting concept huh?
In Ch. 2 the author says this: "Strong Christian marriages will still be struck by lightning- sexual temptation, communication problems, frustrations, unrealized expectations- but if marriages are heavily watered with an unwavering commitment to please God above everything else, the conditions won't be ripe for a devastating fire to follow the lightning strike. If I'm married only for happiness, and my happiness wanes for whatever reason, one little spark will burn the entire forest of my relationship. But if my aim is to proclaim and model God's ministry of reconciliation, my endurance will be fireproof."
Some really important pieces of wisdom right there. I'm grateful for the little reminders God gives me when I read. And here's the amazing thing. As I strive to become more holy as God calls me to...in His strength & grace...He gives me JOY!!! WOW...pretty amazing!

Swimming and the Benefits of Sports

2010-07-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

This year we have the joy of cheering on both of our girls on the swim team. Let me start with Madison. We debated whether to have her swim over the winter but with school, church & gymnastics, it was hard to fit it all in. We definitely see a talent there with her. She has always been a fish and with her loosey goosey body & flexible shoulders she has really done well this year. He best stroke is butterfly which any swimmer will tell you is the hardest stroke to do. Her dolphin kick is almost faster that her flutter kick (this I think is from pretending to be a mermaid in the water since she was 4). So far she has won 2 varsity swimming meets & we think this qualifies her to Championships. Her next best stroke is Breaststroke. She has a very clean stroke and I believe she won a race and placed second in another & hopefully she will swim breast at Championships as well...we'll see.

Now Adrienne is a completely different swimmer. She was very hesitant to swim on the team but after she realized she could make it all the way across doing freestyle and actually do a better dive than some of the older girls, she was excited to swim. She started out only swimming freestyle, (since that is the only stroke she learned). But last night she swam butterfly & breaststroke! Just by watching others and a couple pointers from Madison , daddy & me...she did so well! She made it all the way across and swam beautifully...like she had been doing it all along!
Words cannot express how amazing this experience has been for not just the girls but for Bill & I. To be able to cheer them on, encourage them & celebrate with them...the talents that God has given them...what an amazing blessing!!

I really believe that kids who participate in sports are better equipped to take on the challenges that life throws them. It helps you learn how to overcome fear, how to deal with failure & how to be humble when you win and do well. It strengthens your body & your mind and teaches you how to be disciplined. Now I have no idea if the girls will continue swimming as they grow, but Bill and I feel strongly that they eventually pick one sport that they LOVE to do and pursue it...whether that is swimming, gymnastics, softball, soccer...whatever (although I am hoping for swimming or gymnastics...and Bill, well you know what sport he's leaning towards :) Sports have also provided so many good opportunities to teach our kids important lessons. Humility is a big one. I am excited to see how God is going to use sports in our kid's lives to grow them and challenge them. But for now....SWIM FAST MY GIRLS....I LOVE YOU!!

Trip to Grand Island

2010-07-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics my dad sent of my trip home...

Thanks for sending the CD Dad.

SLACKER!

2010-07-06T13:06:00.000-07:00

Yep...that's me. A slacker. My poor blog is lonely and deprived...so sorry blog. I am overwhelmed by the business of summer. Here's the recap....June was a whirlwind with birthdays...2 neices and Madison who had 2 parties...trips to Lancaster, Philadelphia and Atlantic City, swim practice, swim meets, gymnastics, and going to the pool. July hit me smack in the face...NOOOOO! Not July already! SLOW DOWN SUMMER!!!
Trip to good ol GI for my 20th reunion...so fun to see Melissa and Julie, my neighborhood friends and all my highschool classmates. Also got to see my friend Steph and her adorable kids Emma & Gavin. She cracks me up as she always has...love her. The kids had a blast & poor Gege & Papa who are surely still pooped from the whole weekend! Thanks again Mom & Dad! So sorry for slackin. Things still haven't settled down & probably won't till I am laying on a beach in Hilton Head. I'm off to a birthday party for Adrienne's friend Gianna. I promise to post some pics of the 4th and more summer fun.Oh and the flowers...well ya know, they just make me happy!

1st Trip to the Beach in 2010

2010-06-29T09:14:00.000-07:00

Nana and Poppy were gracious to invite us to the beach in AC. The water was COLD but the kids enjoyed it alot. We went up to the room where they all took a nap (including me). We then ate at a Buffet and headed out onto the boardwalk for some rides and rock climbing. The girls made it all the way up! Matthew was too little to climb and not happy about it. He quickly got over it after riding the rollercoaster a few times with a new friend. The girls went on the Disco ride one too many times. Adrienne came off the last time quite dizzy and not feeling well so we headed home. Thanks Nana & Poppy for a great day!

Birthday Pics

2010-06-25T08:20:00.000-07:00

Madison had her first sleepover party last Friday and it was a blast! The girls all got along really well. This was a perfect age for a sleepover...they were old enough to be independant and well behaved but young enough that there was no drama. We had pizza and cupcakes and then headed over to the theater to see Toy Story 3. We all loved it. I especially loved Ken & Barbie. We came home and the kids caught fireflies, had a pillow fight and told stories. By 10 I was pooped (and so were the girls) so it was time for bed. They got up early and we set up the waterslide and enjoyed donuts & smoothies in coconut cups. Madison really enjoyed her party and her friends Emma, Bella, Hannah, and Kiera. Here are the pics...enjoy!

Happy Father's Day Dad!

2010-06-18T06:37:00.000-07:00

We love you!

Turning 9 and Riding Ducks

2010-06-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Gege & Papa came to visit for Madison's 9th birthday. We all enjoyed our visit. Madison's family party was Sunday and the kids enjoyed the waterslide in the backyard. On Monday, Madison's birthday, we went to see Shrek 4 (thanks to Gege & Papa) and all enjoyed it. I was crackin up at the fat Puss n Boots...he was the best. It was better than Shrek 3 for sure. Yesterday we traveled into the city and rode the duck tour all through Philly. It was fun for all & very informative. We all got duck quackers & the kids of course quacked their little hearts out...to all the adults dismay. (The quackers are currently in a very safe place...where no child can find them :) After the tour we traveled to south Philly for a real Philly Cheesteak (I promised my dad) at Geno's. We all ate them on the car ride home...delicious...especially since we were all starving (and very tired). Madison received some wonderful gifts for her birthday. We got her a new camera. I also taught her how to download the photos and put them up on her new blog, Madison's Memories. So go visit her there & make a comment...she would love to read it! Here are some photos. Madison took alot more from Philly and she will post them soon.

Happy Birthday Madison!

2010-06-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

9 years ago, June 14th 2001. The Sixers were playing the Lakers in the NBA Finals.
10 days late and feeling crummy. Labor was not fun at all thanks to pitocin...but thankful for epidurals. Fever, chills, throwing up strawberry freezie pops. Not-so-smart resident says "you probably won't have the baby till tomorrow..." He was never to be seen in my room again. Dr. Meltz..."it's time to push...wake up Bill!" Pushed & pushed & pushed some more. And at 4:48 pm a little head with brown hair emerged. "It's our Madison!" Bill said...but how did he know? She wasn't out yet. One more push & there she was...our Madison Elizabeth. Blue and not breathing. New daddy says "breathe for daddy honey, breathe for daddy"...and she did. And from that first breathe until now, we stand amazed at the the gift you are. Happy Birthday to my first born Madison! My spunky girl, we love you!!

Fun Run

2010-06-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

A couple Sundays ago, Millersville (in Lancaster PA where Bill's parents & brother's family live) held a kids fun run and Poppy invited us all to come & run in it. So our kids & their cousins Amanda, Tate and Sarah, all got real numbers pinned on their shirts and ran 1/4 mile. It was so fun to see them running as fast as their little legs could go. We made our own Tshirts that said 5 Happy Roths on the front & their names on the back. Here are a few shots of the day...

Strawberry Pickin'

2010-05-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

We never did this one before. Yesterday we went to Linvilla and picked strawberries. I must say it was more fun than picking apples. We all found our own path and picked like crazy! (and ate some too...mmm) Bill and I just loved listening to the kids..."Holy Cow! I found the mother lode!" or "Look at the size of this one!" or Matthew, "oh I guess I can eat this one too...just to try it". By the time the hay ride returned Matthew had collected a total of ZERO in his basket. He said he had about "a hundwed" in his belly. Last night I dipped the strawberries in melted white and milk chocolate...yum. We are all looking forward to strawberry pancakes, strawberry shortcake, strawberry smoothies and anything else I can think of...

2010-05-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Here's a little slide show of our trip to the Please Touch Museum this weekend. It was so much fun. My favorite shots are of Bill & the kids walking on clouds, Adrienne at the supermarket, Dr. Matthew reviewing my XRays, and the last shot of Lady Liberty (Madison). We all had so much fun. They had a pretend shoe store downstairs with some famous people's shoes and there on the bottom shelf was Hip-Hop's red & white shoe and right above it was the Philly Phanatic's...too funny to see Bill's sneaker on display at a museum. Enjoy the show!

Ruhee and Her Family

2010-05-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing weekend. You all know about Madison's pen pal from India, Ruhee. The girls have been writing each other & sending gifts to each other for over a year now. A few months ago, Ruhee's dad informed me that they will be coming to the United States and taking a tour all over the country. We thought there may be a possibility that we could meet them in NY so the girls could meet one another. Well it worked out that since they have family in the US, their nephew was able to drive them right to our house on Friday night! They could only stay a short while but it was so nice to meet Mangesh, his wife Aparna, Ruhee and their nephew who actually lives 20 minutes from us. They came with beautiful gifts & books for our whole family! We had dessert & coffee, looked at some beautiful pictures of Ruhee, and even saw her perform a beautiful dance. What a wonderful blessing! Madison was so excited at this amazing opportunity & is now asking us when we will be traveling to India. Here are some photos. Some did not turn out as I had hoped...it may be time for a new camera.

Here's a shot of Madison trying a pose Ruhee was showing her from the dance she learned. I believe the dance was called Bharata Natyam. (Madison's face had me cracking up)

Here are some beautiful pictures of Ruhee performing her dance...doesn't she look beautiful!

And here's a picture of A losing her first front tooth! She was so excited and still can't stop smiling!

Favorite Book 2010

2010-05-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

You've heard me say (an write) many times how much I LOVE Sonlght's homeschool curriculum. I just love their choice of books...especially the read-alouds. It is well worth the money to have all these amazing books! Well my favorite book Bill read to the kids this year was, "Justin Morgan Had a Horse" by Marguerite Henry. It is a story that discusses the history of the famous Morgan horse. Not sure how accurate it is, but a good read nonetheless. A young boy named Joel is asked to care for his schoolteacher's (Justin Morgan) "runt" horse named Little Bub. Little Bub makes it clear early on of his amazing strength, stamina & spirit despite the fact that he was so much smaller than other horses. Joel & Bub form a strong bond with each other and in the end, he is chosen to be ridden by none other than President James Monroe. I loved it & so did the kids (me probably more). I cried & laughed....simply loved it. So if you're looking for a great summer book to read to your kids...this is the one!

A Daffodil For My Mom

2010-05-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's day Mom...here's a daffodil for you...your favorite flower.
I am blessed to have a mom who dedicated her life to her kids, and continues to do so.
Thank you. I love you.
To my mother-in law , who did an amazing job raising an amazing man...my husband....and who is also a huge blessing in my life.
To my sister, an example to me, a passionate & dedicated mom to her beautiful girls, my neices.
To my sisters-in-law Amy & Jen, and my dear friends, Paula, Tracie, Barb, Wendy, and all my girlfriends from church....Happy Mother's Day!
I am a better mom because of all of you!

Thoughts on Homeschooling

2010-05-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

3rd grade is a big year. The amount of material covered really increases in this grade and by God's grace we are almost finished! I am meeting with an evaluator at the end of this month (a teacher friend of mine from church), and I am working hard to organize Madison's portfolio, reading list and log so that I can turn it in at the end of June to our school district. This will also be the time I need to submit objectives for next year. According to PA law we need to submit all this info in the 3rd grade. It's a little scary but good because I can make sure Madison is getting all that she needs to learn and learn well. As I look back on the school year, my heart is filled with gratefullness! The fact that I can watch them learn their math & reading & history along side them is just so great! I am learning right along with them! I have had so many great talks with them, laughed and cried, asked for forgiveness and forgiven. I have watched them listen intently when daddy reads them a good book in an always funny & engaging accent. We marveled at God's creation of strange plants & animals, learned about great American presidents, and how to write poetry. We grew radishes, played indians and watched "Life" on TV together. Not only that but seeing Madison excel in math and do amazingly well on her IOWA test was so encouraging to me, a mom, who hated school & once not long ago, thought Ohio was in Canada :)! Watching Adrienne slowly grasp phonics and gain a new interest in language was an answered prayer. And seeing Matthew's wide eyes as we read a book about animals and hear him ask inquisitive questions just made me smile. So when people ask how long I will homeschool, I often say "we take it year by year". I believe that God will reveal to us when it's time to put them in school....but for right now, why stop a really good thing?

The New Swingset

2010-04-27T08:56:00.000-07:00

Well, after Adrienne who weighs next to nothin pulled one of the swings out of our swingset, we figured it was time for a new one. We heard from a friend that BJ's had some good deals so we went online & found this one. It had to have monkey bars for my monkey Adrienne, and it has 3 swings, a little clubhouse underneath with an attatched table & bench. The kids already asked if they could eat lunch on it. The only problem...it had to be assembled. So I wanted to thank Nana & Poppy for helping us on Sunday & for bringing dinner. We could not have finished it without your help! And of course Bill....I know you don't always enjoy doing these types of things, but I wanted to show you the pics of the kids totally enjoying their new playhouse this morning. They are having a blast...(so much so that I cannot get any school done!) :)

Vault

2010-04-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

Bill does a handspring front layout with a half twist. He scored 9.825. Starts at 5:40.

Bill's High Bar Routine

2010-04-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

So this was Bill's best event. His long arms, extreme shoulder flexibility & excellent form made for an always exciting routine. The release move is called The Gaylord, named after Mitch Gaylord...Olympic gymnast who dabbled in movies...but we won't go there ;) And the dismount...yep, that's 3 flips in the air people... a bit hard to do 3 flips off of anything and land on your feet. Check it out. Bill starts at 1:30.

Look What I Found on You Tube!

2010-04-14T07:47:00.000-07:00

Can you believe we found this old video of Bill competing gymnastics when he was 19?! This is the same year that we met, (my first year in college). To see Bill, just hit play and drag the little circle to the time 7:35 to see his floor exercise routine...or just watch the whole thing. Bill is the last competitor on this video. There is also video of him on other events. I will try to post those as well.

Wearing Bikinis and Drinking Beer

2010-04-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Did I get your attention with the title of this post?
The girl in the photo...you guessed it...me.
Wasn't I cute?
Definitely in need of a little discretion with the alcohol...and ALOT more modesty with the swimwear :)
Don't worry, there was no beer left in the bottle...but what in the world is with that bathing suit top?
Why even put it on me? Though very cute, it doesn't look very comfortable and doesn't really serve any purpose. I am sure my mom loved putting me in it.
My dad had a total knee replacement this morning, so I wanted to do a post that would make him smile and let him know we are praying for a speedy recovery. Get well soon dad! We love you!

Easter 2010

2010-04-07T07:34:00.000-07:00

My family came & stayed with us...my mom & dad, Deanne & John & Jordyn & Jenna. The weather was beautiful! The kids played and we ate & talked and rested & ate & talked some more. It was so nice to be with them. Church was great as usual, and we even watched the movie Blind Side on Saturday night. Enjoy the pics...hope your Easter was a good one!

Madison was perfectly happy & content to be with her cousin Jordyn. When it was time for them to leave she said, "Mom, I love Jordyn so much. I am really going to miss her!"

Easter morning

Easter egg hunt in our backyard...thanks to Deanne for organizing & John for hiding the eggs...in sometimes difficult to get at places...

And then we even got to meet this guy...

GOOD Friday

2010-04-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

Why is it good? 2000 years ago Jesus died a horrible death to rescue His precious beloved ones...me and you. Thank you Jesus...for saving me! Thank you that you gave me a new life on that day! Thank you that you give us hope...real hope. The kind that brings joy...real joy.
Happy EASTER!!

Geo-graphy and Riding Horses

2010-03-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

Madison learned geography in Compass last month. It's funny cause she has a hard time saying geography so she breaks up the word and it sounds like...geo-graphy. They created these cool maps to learn the names of geographical landmarks on the earth. She had a blast molding it and painting it and I think it turned out really nice. I also learned what an archipelago was! (I guess I missed that class when I was in school :)

Last weekend when It was so nice, Madison was invited over a friends house for dinner and Bill had a game so I took the 2 little ones to Linvilla. It was so beautiful out...(even though I was feeling pretty crummy from a sinus infection that still lingers). They had pony rides and no one was there so I figured the kids would enjoy it. Matthew's horse was named Daisy and A forgot to ask the name of her horse. Here are the pics.